The Average Cost to Be a Bridesmaid: Itemized List of Expenses

How much will the typical bridesmaid spend on weddings this year? 

 

We all know that the average cost of a wedding is sky-high these days, but what about the price of being in a wedding, as a bridesmaid, bridesman, or bridesmate? What’s the average cost to be a bridesmaid these days? 

 

It probably won’t surprise you at all to learn that the cost of being a bridesmaid or bridesmate can add up fast. Especially if you’re expected to purchase a new dress or suit for the occasion, find matching shoes and accessories, pay for your own travel and lodging costs, hair and make up – the list can go on and on (and on).

 

According to The Knot, the average cost of being a bridesmaid is between $1,200 to $1,800. Other sources put the cost closer to $2,950. Let that sink in! 

 

This can be a lot of money to set aside for someone else’s wedding, even if you’re absolutely thrilled at the idea of participating. It’s helpful to know where exactly your money’s going, which items are essential and which you can skip, and how to save without missing out on the best parts of the celebration. 

 

Related: Who Can Be a Witness for a Wedding & How Do You Choose?

 

Who pays for bridesmaids dresses, makeup – and all the other costs? 

 

So, who’s paying this $2,000+ price tag? In most cases, the nearlyweds will assume that you're paying for your own dress and extras, out of appreciation for participating on the wedding day. Sometimes the couple will pay for part or all of these costs, but you shouldn’t expect it. Because wedding etiquette rules have changed so much over the years, there are no set ‘rules’ about who pays for the bridesmaid dresses or suits, who pays for wedding travel, and so on. 

 

If your budget is a concern (as it is for most people!), ask about expected costs and obligations before you agree to be a bridesmaid. Let your loved ones know that you’re incredibly honored to be asked, but that you have spending limits to consider. This is the best and simplest way to avoid misunderstandings down the road. If you can’t afford to join in, ask to participate in another meaningful way. 

 

With all of this in mind, let's take a look at the breakdown of the average cost to be a bridesmaid. We’ve also included a few simple ways to save. This list will give you a great starting point for budgeting, planning, and prioritizing your costs! 

 

Related: 5 Ways to Help an Engaged Friend Get Ready for the Wedding Day

 

(Photo by George Chambers / Pexels)

 

 

Average Cost of Being a Bridesmaid: $1,200 to $2,950

 

• Average Bridesmaid Bridal Shower Gifts & Contributions Cost: $50 - $175
• Average Bachelorette Party Cost: $1,300
• Average Bridesmaid Dress Cost (with Alterations):  $130 - $280
• Average Bridesmaid Wedding Gift Cost: $100 - $150
• Average Bridesmaid Hair & Makeup Cost: $300
• Average Bridesmaid Travel Costs (with Lodging): $300 to $1000 

 

 

• Average Bridal Shower Gift (Wedding Shower Gift) & Contribution Cost: $50 - $175

 

Your costs will vary when it comes to the wedding shower, depending on whether or not you’re expected to throw the party, or just attend it. Here’s a look at each scenario: 

 

How much should you spend on a bridal shower gift if you are a bridesmaid? 

 

On average, bridesmaids spend $50 to $75 on a bridal shower gift. Common bridal shower gifts include jewelry, classy coupe glasses, custom blankets; and group gifts such as luggage or expensive cookware.

 

To save money, consider splitting the cost of an expensive gift with other bridesmates; or give a heartfelt handmade gift, such as a personal handwritten letter in a beautiful envelope, or a piece of artwork. 

 

Do bridesmaids pay for the bridal shower or wedding shower? 

 

These days, it’s common for bridesmaids to pay for the bridal shower / wedding shower, or to split the costs with the bride. The average contribution for a wedding shower is around $50 to $100 per bridesmaid, depending on the type of event and where it’s being hosted. (Traditionally, however, paying for the bridal shower was the maid of honor’s responsibility.)

 

To throw a budget-friendly bridal shower, host the event at home and create a simple food and drink menu. Keep the guest list small, and add DIY decorations for a festive party without the big price tag.

 

 

A spot on 'Team Bride' can get expensive, but there are a few ways to keep costs lower. (Photo by Craig Adderley / Pexels)

 

 

• Average Bachelorette Party Cost for Bridesmaids: $1,300

 

The Knot estimates the average cost to attend a bachelorette party is around $1,300. But this amount varies dramatically depending on how long the party lasts – 1 night or 5 nights? – and where it happens – local nightlife or a destination bachelorette? 

 

How much should bridesmaids spend on bachelorette party planning?

 

On the low end, bridesmaids might pay a few hundred dollars for a one-night bash nearby. On the high end, bridesmaids who fly someplace tropical for a long weekend could pay several thousand dollars. 

 

To plan a low-cost bachelorette party, keep the party to one night and plan something that won’t require most participants to buy a plane ticket. Lower costs even more by sharing hotel rooms (with the option for guests to pay extra for their own room); renting a vacation home with a kitchen; or purchasing an ‘all inclusive’ package with no surprise fees. If an overnight stay isn’t necessary you’ll cut your costs even more – consider dinner, drinks, and live entertainment.

 

If you’ll also need to travel for the wedding, you might consider skipping the bachelorette party, or combine your travel for a longer stay that includes both events. 

 

 

• Average Bridesmaid Dress Cost with Alterations: $130 - $280

 

According to the experts, the average bridesmaid dress costs about $130, plus another $75 - $150 if the dress needs to be altered. For bridesmaids, bridesmen, and bridesmates who choose a nontraditional fit or cultural attire – a suit, jumpsuit, lehenga choli, or qipao, for example – the cost can be even higher.

 

When choosing how much to spend, you’ll want to budget for the cost to hem a bridesmaid dress (the most common alteration needed, averaging about $45), to adjust the sleeves or straps, and to take in or let out the waist and hips for the best fit.

 

In the United States, it’s common for bridesmaids to pay for their own dress or suit, as well as any accessories. In other countries, it’s more common for the couple (or their families) to cover the wedding party’s expenses. 

 

For low cost bridesmaid dresses, consider talking honestly with your to-be-wed about your day-of look and budget. (This conversation should be handled with much care and caution though, as many couples will have a very specific vision for their wedding day, including what they want their attendants to look like.) Ask if you can wear complimentary attire that you already own or off-the-rack options, a rental dress or suit, consignment options, or if it’s possible to split the cost of a pre-approved dress with them. 

 

 

(Photo by Ron Lach / Pexels)

 

 

• Average Bridesmaid Wedding Gift Cost $170

 

First, do bridesmaids give a wedding gift? In addition to a wedding shower gift, their contributions to the bachelorette party, and the gift of their presence and support in the wedding party? In the US, yes. It’s customary for bridesmaids to give a wedding gift too – although the size of the item you place on the gift table is up to you and your budget.  

 

How much should a bridesmaid spend on a wedding gift?

 

The average bridesmaid spends about $100 - $150 on a wedding gift, but you should never feel pressured to spend more than you comfortably afford. 

 

Consider an item from the gift registry (if the nearlyweds have made one), contribute to a honeymoon fund, place cash in a crisp decorative envelope, or get creative with custom and handmade gifts. 

 

Budget-friendly wedding gifts abound! Consider saving money by splitting the cost of a bigger gift with other guests; or purchase a nice bottle of champagne or prosecco, a cute cookbook, a monthly coffee subscription, personalized robes or towels, or an adorable picnic basket for their adventures to come.

 

 

• Average Bridesmaid Hair & Makeup Cost: $300

 

The average cost of wedding hair and makeup for bridesmaids is around $300 a person. However, the value of professional hair and makeup varies widely from person to person – with some people caring a lot about this service, and others not at all. This service is also typically gendered, with some male and nonbinary members of the wedding party often skipping hair and makeup costs altogether. 

 

Many people enjoy having their hair and makeup professional done on the wedding day because they know they’ll appear in lots of photos, and it makes them feel more confident. Others prefer a natural look! Both of these options are great. Because physical appearance is so personal and closely linked to confidence and identity, no one should ever feel pressured to wear more or less makeup than they want to on the wedding day. 

 

To save money on hair and makeup, consider doing your own or having a talented friend donate their time. 

 

 

• Average Bridesmaid Travel Costs with Lodging: $300 - $1000

 

The average cost for bridesmaid travel and lodging is between $300 - $1000. Just like the bachelorette party estimate, this amount depends on where the wedding takes place, and how many days the wedding party is expected to be there.

 

If no travel is needed, this item could end up costing no money at all, or the price of gas or a rideshare / taxi cab. On the other hand, a destination wedding that requires transportation and accommodations will add significant costs to your bridesmaid budget – possibly several thousand dollars!

 

To cut down on the cost of wedding travel and lodging, book any tickets and rooms you’ll need as early as possible. As with anything wedding related, it’s always a good idea to pay a little extra for travel insurance or no-hassle refunds – this can save you a lot of money and frustration in the long run.

 

Consider sharing a room with other guests, or reserving an affordable vacation rental with a kitchen to save on an extended stay. If necessary, talk to the nearlyweds about splitting costs or negotiating group rates.

 

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